Republicans gain control of the House, achieving a “trifecta” with the presidency and Senate under Trump. This unified government sets the stage for sweeping policy changes and reforms.
Washington, D.C. — In a major political victory, the Republican Party has taken control of the U.S. House of Representatives, completing a “trifecta” by holding the presidency and both houses of Congress. This gives the Republicans full control of the federal government, opening the door for major policy changes.
Former President Donald Trump returned to the White House after a decisive win in the 5 November election, running on a platform of “America First” policies. Late on Wednesday, the Associated Press confirmed the Republicans had passed the crucial threshold of 218 seats in the House of Representatives, securing a majority among its 435 seats. This victory allows Republicans to lead both Congress and the White House.
“We stand united, determined, and ready to deliver the America First Agenda,” wrote House Speaker Mike Johnson on social media. With a clear majority, Republicans are now in a strong position to push for key goals, including stricter immigration rules, tariffs on imports, and reductions to environmental protections.
This “governing trifecta” recalls the last time Republicans held all three branches of government from 2017 to 2018, during Trump’s first term. However, full party control is often brief. When Trump held a trifecta previously, he managed to pass a major tax cut but faced setbacks on other goals, like his effort to repeal the Affordable Care Act. Similarly, Biden’s 2020 trifecta was short-lived, with his “Build Back Better” spending plans scaled back significantly.
The Republican majority faces a key challenge in the Senate’s filibuster rule, which requires 60 votes to pass most major bills. Without a 60-seat majority, Republicans will still need support from some Democrats to pass certain legislation. However, having control of both the House and Senate does make it easier for Republicans to confirm key appointments, including judges, further boosting their influence in the federal courts.
The Supreme Court, already holding a conservative majority at six to three, provides Trump with a key advantage this time around. This could allow him to pursue policies that are less likely to face legal challenges, a common obstacle during his first term.
Yet, history has shown that such political dominance can be short-lived. Both Trump and Biden experienced similar trifectas during their first two years in office, only to lose control in midterm elections. Republicans know they must move quickly to make the most of this period of unified government.
With Trump and the Republican Party in charge, the U.S. could see bold legislative changes ahead. Whether these plans become reality will depend on how effectively the party manages this rare opportunity for full control in Washington.
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